Skip to Content
Course

AutoCAD I: Introduction

ARCH-40001

Course Duration: 2.5 weeks
Suggested Prerequisite: Good command of the Windows environment.
Quarters Offered: Winter | Spring | Summer | Fall

Build a strong foundation in computer-aided design with this hands-on introduction to AutoCAD. Designed for beginners, this course walks you step-by-step through the core tools, commands, and workflows used by professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and related fields. You’ll become comfortable navigating the AutoCAD interface while learning essential skills such as drawing, modifying, dimensioning, layering, text annotation, and plotting.

Course Details

Through guided practice and real-world exercises, you’ll create drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and ultimately develop a complete residential floor plan. Along the way, you’ll assemble your work into a polished construction document set—mirroring the process professionals use every day. Video demonstrations, quizzes, discussions, and regular instructor feedback support your learning and help you apply concepts with confidence.

By the end of the course, you’ll have practical experience producing accurate 2D drawings and organizing them into professional deliverables. Whether you’re starting a new career or adding CAD skills to your current role, this course gives you the technical foundation to move forward with clarity and confidence.

What You'll Learn

  • Navigate the AutoCAD interface and use core drawing and modification tools
  • Create and organize drawings using layers, text, and dimensioning standards
  • Develop drafting symbols, fixtures, and architectural elements
  • Produce a complete 2D floor plan and assemble a professional construction document
  • Plot and present drawings accurately for print or digital submission

Course Information

Online
2.50 units
$575.00
Notes:
  • This is an accredited course and is open to all adult learners that meet the prerequisites.
  • Students must be enrolled by 5pm PT, one day prior to the course start date, due to the enrollment process and the short duration of the course.
  • This course is administered through the Virtual Design & Construction Institute's (VDCI) online portal: ucsdextension.matrixlms.com.
  • Students should expect 8 - 10 hours of study per week. 
  • Once enrolled, students have access to course video instruction for 30 days.

Hardware, Software Requirement: 

  • Students should have a basic knowledge of computers including knowledge of how to download files. A PC with a supported, current version of Windows is required.
  • Autodesk AutoCAD Software
    • Students enrolled in the CAD/BIM Certificate program will have free access to the student software. Proof of certificate enrollment is required (certificate verification PDF available through MyExtension).
    • Students enrolled in individual courses will not have free access and can sign up for a free trial or purchase the software.
    • Instructions for downloading Autodesk AutoCAD software will be provided on the first day of class.

Textbook

  • No textbook is required but there may be recommended texts for additional study. 

Series

 

 

Get more information

This course applies to these programs

CAD/BIM

Course sessions

Add To Cart

Section ID:

199269

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/13/2026
  • 1st meeting mandatory
  • Early enrollment advised
  • No UCSD parking permit required
  • No visitors permitted

Note:

This is an Online Asynchronous course administered through VDCI's LMS. All instruction and course materials delivered and completed online between the published course start and end dates. You will have access to your course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed. To login to your course, go to your MyExtension account, select My Courses, select this course and then click the link that appears under Online Provider.

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: John O'Malley

John O'Malley

John has many years of experience using Revit and AutoCAD in the professional architectural office, working on commercial, government and residential projects – pushing Revit to the limits. John graduated from VDCI in 2010. He has served as an onsite TA for many years and teaches many of our online AutoCAD courses for the CAD/BIM certificate program. An avid bicycler, John enjoys travelling and experiencing the great outdoors all around the world.

Full Bio